• THE roll-out of low traffic neighbourhoods, LTNs, or people-friendly streets, across Islington has prompted much debate.

Islington Liberal Democrats believe that our streets must work well for all residents and should not set pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists against each other.

For example, rather than being restricted to emergency vehicles, camera filters (already using ANPR automatic number plate recognition to issue penalties) could allow residents through, while still preventing our streets being used as rat-runs.

It is frequently stated that Islington has one of the lowest levels of car ownership, so this change should not remove the benefits of such LTN schemes.

As the cameras are already operational, an ANPR exemption for residents could be implemented quickly and we call on the council to trial this now.

Introducing these schemes at an accelerated pace due to Covid-19 is not an excuse for the lack of consultation; and it has clearly created some unease.

The council could have delivered on their manifesto promise to introduce LTNs in consultation with residents and pointed to successful schemes already operating in Islington long before the pandemic forced this upon them.

We propose holding citizens’ assemblies where people can have a real say and work together to improve their neighbourhood. Safe quiet streets and healthy air are massive benefits to us all – and they can be achieved without conflict.

KATE POTHALINGAM
Islington Liberal Democrats